Merry Brides: Gifts

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How to Select Cookware for Wedding Gift Registries -- Pots and Pans for Keeps

(MS) - From the moment you're engaged, there appears to be an endless number of decisions to be made - from setting a wedding date to picking bridal gift registry items that are just right for your home. Choosing cookware - a must-have for the newlywed kitchen - can be especially stressful with so many different kinds of pots and pans available. Given today's dizzying array of options in materials and styles, it's a good idea to understand the differences between them before visiting stores. That way, you and your beloved can make the best decision about what cookware will best suit your needs.

In considering cookware, it's helpful to keep in mind that 85 percent of the world's cookware sales come from three types of materials: stainless steel, aluminum and hard-anodized aluminum. Within those materials, there are other features that differentiate cookware. It is important to compare like materials to like materials as they each have their own unique properties.

Hard-Anodized Aluminum

Hard-anodized aluminum cookware is one of the most popular types of material, even though many people don't quite understand the construction. Hard-anodized aluminum is plain aluminum that has been processed in a series of chemical baths charged with an electric current. The result is a material that has the same superior heat conductivity as aluminum but is non-reactive with acidic foods, such as tomatoes, and twice as hard as stainless steel. Two drawbacks to hard-anodized cookware are that it is not dishwasher-safe and, because it is not magnetic, it will not work with induction range tops.

Recently, there have been advancements in the design of hard-anodized cookware. Infinite Circulon Cookware is the first cookware that marries the superior performance and ease-of-use of non-stick, hard-anodized aluminum cookware with two key features - the ability to be used with all types of ranges, including induction, and the added convenience of being the only hard anodized cookware that is completely dishwasher-safe.

Infinite Circulon incorporates a cookware base clad in 18/0 stainless steel, making the bottom magnetic with the ability to work on all types of stovetops, including induction. The pans feature a durable nonstick surface both inside and out, making it easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. The interior cooking surface incorporates Circulon's signature nonstick system, designed with circular grooves that take the abuse of utensils, while leaving the low lying areas on the pan untouched. The pans are finished with comfortable, hollow-core stainless steel handles that stay cool during stovetop cooking and make the pans oven safe to 500 degrees.

Nonstick Cookware

Nonstick cookware has made dramatic improvements in quality and durability since it was introduced more than 30 years ago. Nonstick cookware is a natural fit for health-conscious eaters looking for ways to prepare low-fat meals with the convenience of easy clean-up. With more than 80 percent of all cookware sold being nonstick, there are many choices. There are a few things to consider when shopping for nonstick cookware. Look first at the type of pan surface on which the coating is applied. Because they are harder and more durable, hard-anodized aluminum nonstick pans will last longer than plain aluminum nonstick pans. Second, look at the thickness of the pan. The thicker the pan, the better the heat distribution, which will, over time, protect the nonstick coating.

One excellent non-stick cookware option is Anolon Advanced, which features hard-anodized construction, durable nonstick inside and out and tempered glass stainless steel rimmed lids, which seal in flavors while allowing for monitoring of the cooking process without having to lift the lid. The pan's handles are made of stainless steel and silicone rubber for a soft, cool, secure, grip.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a versatile cookware option that's highly durable and looks great. It is heavy-duty, resistant to dents and dings, non-reactive with acidic foods and dishwasher safe. Unfortunately, stainless steel by itself is not a good heat conductor. In order to make a stainless steel pan conduct heat evenly, it is combined with another conductive metal like copper or aluminum. This is done by attaching a disc to the bottom of the pan or by combining layers of stainless steel with a conductive metal to make a clad pan. If choosing a pan with a disc bottom, look for a thick disc that spreads to the edges of the pan. This will prevent a ring of burnt food around the edge of the cooking surface, as well as eliminate hot spots and improve heat distribution.

KitchenAid's® Gourmet Essentials Brushed Stainless Steel Cookware is an ideal option for cooking couples. Each piece features an aluminum disc base for fast, even heat distribution. The base is fully encapsulated in stainless steel to resist staining and prevent marks on ceramic tiles or sinks. The brushed stainless steel exterior provides long-lasting beauty while the gleaming, polished stainless steel interior is ideal for a variety of food preparations - from searing and sautéing to frying and boiling. CoolGrip handles, made of stainless steel encased in soft silicone rubber, provide a firm yet comfortable grip.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a terrific heat conductor that heats evenly across the bottom and up the walls of the cookware. Generally, the thicker the aluminum cookware, the better the heat distribution and cooking performance. A good quality aluminum pan will give excellent cooking performance at a moderate price.

Farberware Affiniti - a collection of fashion-forward, nonstick aluminum cookware crafted in six luminescent metallic hues, including Cardinal, Black, Copper, Bronze, Amethyst, and Pewter - offers convenience without compromising on good looks. Farberware Affiniti Cookware features even-heating aluminum construction and a nonstick cooking surface that makes it possible to prepare dishes with little or no added fat for healthier eating. The new cookware's dazzling exterior is crafted with a highly reflective, metallic design in a rainbow of vibrant hues to match any kitchen décor. Ergonomic stainless steel and silicone handles, riveted to the pan for long-term stability, provide a soft, cool, confident grip. Break-resistant tempered glass, dome-shaped lids allow for constant monitoring of the cooking process without loss of heat, flavors or nutrients. Perfect for recipes that require oven cooking, Farberware Affiniti Cookware is safe to 400°F.

Unlike your partner, you're not marrying one type or style of cookware. You can even mix and match cookware to suit your particular culinary needs. In fact most food professionals work with a variety of cookware materials, depending on the type of cooking they're doing. Fortified with basic cookware knowledge, you'll be well prepared to select cookware for your bridal registry that will add years of delight and success in the kitchen.

Irish Wedding Rings

By: Martin Smith

There are a number of Irish Wedding Rings that include Spirals, Triskeles, and Triquetas, Shield Knots and Sun Symbols. The most popular ring by far is the Irish Claddagh and it is surrounded by a romantic legend.

The Claddagh is as was said, the most popular in Ireland. The ring symbolizes love, friendship , and loyalty. The ring is named for an Irish fishing village. The design of the Claddagh is constructed of two hands holding a heart with a crown on top of it. The hands represent friendship, the heart represents love, and the crown represents loyalty.

Various traditions give different meanings to the ring depending on how it is worn. As a wedding ring it is worn on the left hand with the heart pointing inward to the wrist. As an engagement ring it is on the right hand with the heart pointing inward toward the wrist. For friendship it is worn on the right hand turned outward.

The legend of the Claddagh begins when a fisherman Richard Joyce and other crew members were captured by pirates shortly before Joyce was to be married. He was sold into slavery in Algiers and made the property of a goldsmith who taught him the craft of goldsmith. Joyce became the master of the craft. With is beloved back in Claddagh on his mind he fashioned the first Claddagh ring. The hands were to represent friendship, the heart was love, and the crown represented loyalty and fidelity.

In 1698 King Georges III agreed to free all of his subjects. Richard Joyce was once again free. His slave master offered Joyce his daughter in marriage and half of his wealth if he would stay in Algiers. Joyce refused the offer and instead returned home to Claddagh where he found his love waiting for him. Neither of them had married. Upon discovering this, Joyce gave his love the ring and they were married shortly thereafter.

The ring was dubbed The Claddagh because of the village Joyce and his Bride were from. There were others who made the ring much later and added jewels and an intricate crown design. The basic hands holding a crowned heart has never changed. Joyce wanted something that would his love for his Beloved.

The Claddagh today is as popular as it ever was. The basic design of the ring has not changed but now there is more intricacies in the crown, gemstones or jewels can be used to fashion the heart, and the hands are simply hands. The ring can be made of silver, gold or basically any metal.

The design is the clasped hands of the 'fede' or faith rings. These rings date from Roman times and were popular in the Middle Ages. The ring is worn now by many to speak to their Irish heritage. The Claddagh tells the story of two lovers who are separated and yet their love and commitment withstood the passage of time. It's simple design and my heritage influenced my decision to purchase a Claddagh.

Wedding Planning Links

Claddagh Irish Jewelry

Claddagh Jewelry from Ireland MyWeddingFavors.com

Irish Shopping - The Premier web site for Irish Gifts, Jewelry and other Items

Wedding Planning Advice
http://merrybrides.blogspot.com http://funweddings.blog.com

Author Bio
Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of products which includes Wedding Ring and and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com

Here Comes the.Wine!

(MS) - Your parents registered for the fine china, the sterling silver gravy boat and the patio furniture starter set. But, with today's couples marrying later, when they already have the essentials, newlyweds-to-be are asking for more non-traditional gifts. According to the 2006 "American Wedding" survey by the Condé Nast Bridal Group, these gifts include registering for wine, sporting goods, and recreational memberships or tickets to museums or sporting events. Gift-giving experts are saying that the bride- and groom-to-be are saying, "Give us a memory," rather than "Stock our china cabinet," and suggest thinking about the couple's hobbies when giving gifts. Foodies define wine as a memorable experience and often appreciate good wine and a starter cellar that offers a variety of delicious gifts.

Thanks to the assorted selection, guests need not worry about giving the same bottle of wine as other guests. Less wine-savvy consumers may be skeptical about giving wine, but can use the following guidelines and speak to their local wine shop for help in finding a variety that has an assortment of everyday bottles as well as wines that will be appreciated in 5-, 10- and 15-year increments (proper storage is essential, but easier than you think).

Suggestions for adding to the newlyweds' "cave," be it a small, cool apartment closet or a temperature controlled vault in the basement is easy with a few simple tips:

· Give a wine the recipient will drink: Select from wine regions that afford red, white and rosés for both everyday meals and special occasions, such as Rioja, known as Spain's leading wine region, which makes wines from tempranillo grapes. Adrian Murcia, assistant sommelier at New York's James Beard Award-winning restaurant, Chanterelle, explains, "Thanks to the tempranillo grape, the expressive and velvety rich Spanish classic, Rioja wines are renowned for their ability to complement many different foods."

· Don't break the bank: Select a gift that fits your budget but also reminds the couple of their wedding day. A series of tickets to theater or sporting events work well for some, but for the wine lover, some givers feel wine is only an acceptable gift when it is an aged bottle with a very high price tag. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, Robert Eigen, owner of Premier Cru Wine Merchants in New York City says, "Rioja is always a good choice for a wedding gift because of the quality of wine and the value. With many varieties of wine from the region, there's something for everyone." The region of Rioja also has easy-to-understand information, as the bottles are aged and released from the winery when they are ready to drink. The back of each bottle features a seal indicating each wine's age: Crianza, the most popular house wine of Spain, is aged 12 months, or the deep, flavorful Reserva is aged 36 months. Better yet, such wines are affordable, with prices thatrange as low as a few dollars per bottle to no more than the equivalent cost of your run-of-the-mill gravy boat.

· Pick a theme: Whether it's eco-friendly wines (Rioja has several) paired with wine glasses made of recycled glass presented in a beautiful bag made of recycled materials or 12 wines to be delivered to the newlyweds' door each month for a year, the theme gives the couple something to look forward to and a great memory.

· Give advice along with gift: For wedding or party guests who truly want to give a unique gift, include ways to make a magical night with the wine such as concert or theater tickets or a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Also, gift-givers might want to ask the manager of the store where they purchase the wine for a recipe or meal suggestion that perfectly complements the wine. In general, wine sellers are wine drinkers, so they're liable to have a host of suggestions ready. When giving your gift, attach a card or note with a few suggestions or even a recipe.

Fun Links:

The Wine News top rated wines
The Wine Enthusiast - Wine Cellars, Wine Accessories, Wine Racks, Wine Glasses and more.

Connoisseurs' Guide top rated wines

Create your own bottle of wine! Design your wine label, personalized for any event or special occasion, to create the perfect gift.

Additional Wedding Advice sites:
Merry Brides
Ultimate Brides
Fun Weddings
Create your own Wedding Website!
Weddings by Ashlee

To learn more about Rioja, Spain's greatest wine region, visit http://www.vibrantrioja.com/.

Bridesmaid Gift Guide - Gift Ideas, Cost Considerations and Etiquette

Author: Cori Locklin

Gifts for your bridesmaids - always a stickler. They have done so much for you, not only as a part of your wedding party but also as a friend and confidant over the years. How to even begin to say thanks? Start by presenting your wedding attendants with heartfelt gifts to express your gratitude. This bridesmaids gift guide will steer you through the gift-giving process with gift ideas, budget considerations and etiquette.

What to Spend

Consider both your budget and the amount that each attendant must spend to be in your wedding. In the end, it's always the thought that counts, but giving movie passes may seem a tad ungrateful if your maids had to shell out $500 each for those couture dresses you insisted upon. Get something that lets your attendants know how much you appreciate them. Generally, spending $50-$150 is a good amount.
Consider also giving a little extra something to your maid/matron of honor, especially if she hosted a shower or engagement party for you.

When to Give

You can present the gifts during any private moment with your 'maids. Many brides give them during the bridesmaids' luncheon or tea. You can also hand them out at the rehearsal dinner, when your closest friends and family are gathered together. Consider presenting them along with a toast, thanking each bridesmaid for their support and friendship over the years.

Bridesmaid Gift Ideas

Stumped on what to give; here are some hot attendant gift ideas:

Monogrammed Robe/Pajamas - a great idea especially if you and your girls are planning a slumber party right before the wedding.

Spa Certificates - or pop for a trip to the spa, and treat everyone to a massage or other treatment. Your maids will appreciate the special pampering.

Personalized Picture Frames - including an individual photo of you with each bridesmaid.

Jewelry - it can be something to wear at the wedding - but also try to choose something they will wear again. You want a gift they will enjoy that will often remind them of you!

A Container Filled with Goodies - Can't decide on one thing? Give it all! Find a creative container and fill it with goodies and mementos. A monogrammed canvas bag or a pretty decorated box will work nicely. If your budget allows, splurge on a nice designer handbag! Be as creative as you want.

Fur (or fake fur) Wraps?a great idea, especially for a winter wedding.

Makeup - have their makeup done for the wedding, and then purchase a few items for them to keep. They will feel fabulous for the big day and will also have something to take with them that they picked out.

Mixed CD's full of tunes that hold special meaning, a great extra that can add a personalized touch to another gift.

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